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You don’t need to know everything [VIDEO]

We recently received this question from one of our members…

Q: I recently upped my consult fee significantly and got my first pre-paid meeting [at the new price!]. With this new build specification request [I am not normally familiar with] I’m still struggling. What if I turn up and get caught on not knowing something about specifying window frames for example? In an already built home I have no problem, but with a set of plans… I’m a little scared! I’m getting help from another designer with the process, but I want to lock in the consult, which will only be me! Any advice?

A: Hi there, We are so happy to hear you are charging for consults. Now, before you even arrive, the client is invested in your success. Plus, by the time you finish the consult you are at Step 3. That’s tangible progress the client can see.

Don’t be worried that you don’t know everything. I know very little! However, I always know who to ask. When a client asks about a building specification I can say, “That question falls into my contractor’s wheelhouse (or plumbers, or electricians etc). He’ll know the answer to that question. I’ll get the answer for you.” Once you realize it’s impossible to know everything, it really frees you up to feel more confident!

Ever dealt with the, “What, it’s a weekend,” client? Or, the flip-flopper? How about the, everything’s an emergency customer? It’s time to look at your strategies for managing various types of client interactions. Join Kimberley Seldon for EP 027 | Act, Deflect, or Ignore ... See MoreSee Less

Make a list of exactly what you want done to help determine your electrical needs. Complete plans early and review them with your Licensed Electrical Contractor. Changing plans in the middle of a proj...

What our Members are saying…

I have heard Kimberley speak at several professional development meetings for the Decorating and Design Industry. She is so encouraging and transparent. Her presentations are humourous, and informing and help us to see the light side of our profession. She has truly set the benchmark for all of us in this industry. I would recommend her any time.

Margo Young, Kitchener ON

If you haven’t read Kimberley Seldon’s books or been to one of her seminars, (I just sat in one on contracts at High Point) I’d say it’s worth every penny. She’s an in-the-trenches designer who still makes her main income in our profession and I’m not receiving anything by endorsing her. I’ve had some pivotal revelations from her talks and her books.